With ‘organic fever’ conquering all Malayalis, most of us have already started small scale farming in our courtyards, rooftops, balconies and flats. As the vegetables available in the market are mostly contaminated with chemical fertiliser and pesticide residue, it is ideal to cultivate the crops for household purposes at home. However, the lack of effective organic fertilisers results in low yield.

Worm compost is effective because earthworms are capable of decomposing organic substances and dissolving them in the soil. They eat plenty of organic substances and defecate on top soil. This compost is highly nourishing and best for crops.

If a square shaped space with 1.5 metre sides can be spared at work area, kitchen or open terrace in the house, we can make compost required for the entire kitchen garden. Here are the tips to prepare worm compost at home easily and cost effectively.

Ingredients

Barrel – 1 no

Gravel soil – 2 pots

Coconut husk – 1 basket

Earthworms – 100 no

Fresh cow dung – half a pot

Iron net – accordingly

Plastic sheet – accordingly

Image: Pixabay

Preparation

A large container that has drain facility in the bottom is the major equipment required.

A barrel or box made of concrete, mud or plastic and has a diameter of one metre can be used.

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